Also:

There has been so much talk lately about Breed Specific Legislation, especially regarding Pit Bulls that I thought it would be nice to post a tribute to a Pit Bull that saved a woman’s life.

We chose Maya for this award not only because she saved (Angela Marcelino) her human mommy’s life from an attacker, but because the organization behind National Dog by, the Animal Miracle Foundation, loves and supports ALL dog breeds. We don’t believe in breed bans and Maya is a testament to the fact that the Pit Bull breed can be hero dogs just like any other breed.

Hmmm…it makes you wonder what would have been the outcome if Maya wasn’t allowed to be adopted.

All dogs are capable of biting and even attacking, but it’s my firm belief that humans are to blame behind the dogs who get a bad rap. Sadly, so many dogs suffer a tragic fate simply because of their breed. Not only is Maya our Hero Dog of 2008, she is what we’re calling our AmbassaBULL to all bull breeds. I was very excited to have a reason to show the world the good side of Pit Bulls” said Colleen Paige, animal behaviorist, author and founder of National Dog Day.

It’s clear, in this situation, as is the case in many life-threatening situations that involve attacks on women, that Angela was fortunate to have a Pit Bull as her protector. But the most heartwarming aspect of this story is that Angela rescued Maya from the Santa Clara County Animal Shelter….and on June 17th, 2007, Maya returned the favor.

Regardless of your feelings about the new laws I don’t think you can argue about this dog hero.

It was Fathers Day 2007. I opened my front door and was about to walk inside when I saw someones shadow out of the corner of my eye. I turned my head just as a man pushed me into my house. I screamed as loud as I could, but the man had slammed the door shut behind him. Shut up were the only words he said to me. He was choking me with one hand. I was able to scream one last time. After I did, his grip tightened around my neck. That is when I saw a white streak run in from the other room. His grip was so tight that I could only gurgle the words Maya, get him. He still had a grip on my throat, as his other hand was busy trying to fight off my angry dog. I dont know how, but I managed to get on my feet.